Syzygium suborbiculare, Eugenia suborbicularis

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Syzygium suborbiculare (Red Bush Apple) is a large shrub or small tree that typically grows 5-10 ft tall, but can reach up to 20 ft in full sun with moderate water. It is native to Australia, and well-known for its ethnomedical properties. It produces white or off-white flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

The fruits of Syzygium suborbiculare are a characteristic dark blood red color, with a firm and crunchy flesh that easily breaks away from the single large seed. The fruit is sour and tangy, and is both edible and highly coveted among bush travelers. Aborigines have been known to use the fruit for medicinal purposes, such as treating chest congestion and earache. On average, each tree produces between 5-15 fruits each year, but when provided with the right conditions, a mature tree can potentially produce up to 40 or more. Nutritionally, the fruits are high in vitamin C, beta-carotene, fructose, and various other minerals and antioxidants. They have been found to help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion.

Given its drought, salt spray, and fire resistance, Syzygium suborbiculare makes a great addition to any garden, especially in areas with dry tropics. It provides a good amount of shade, stunning white flowers, and delicious red fruit with many health benefits.

Similar plants:

• Syzygium antisepticum, Syzygium gratum, Eugenia glaucicalyx, Eugenia grata, Syzygium glaucicalyx (Kalaum, Malaruhat)
• Syzygium aqueum, Eugenia aquea (Water Cherry, Watery Rose Apple)
• Syzygium aromaticum, Caryophyllus aromaticus, Eugenia caryophyllata, Eugenia caryophyllus (Clove, Cloves)
• Syzygium campanulatum, Syzygium myrtifolium, Eugenia oleina (Wild Cinnamon)
• Syzygium jambos, Eugenia jambos, Jambosa jambos (Rose apple, Malabar Plum, Pomme rosa)
• Syzygium malaccense, Eugenia malaccensis, Jambos malaccensis (Malay Apple, Macopa, Otaheite Apple, Pomarosa, Manzana)
• Syzygium myrtifolium, Eugenia oleina, Eugenia myrtifolia, Syzygium campanulatum (Wild Cinnamon, Australian Brush-Cherry, Kelat Oil, Kelat Paya, Red Lip)
• Syzygium paniculatum, Eugenia paniculata (Australian Brush Cherry, Magenta Lilly Pilly )
• Syzygium samarangense, Syzygium javanicum, Eugenia javanica (Wax jamboo, Java apple, Macopa)
• Syzygium australe (Scrub Cherry)